Pune’s Iconic Burger Joint Wins Legal Battle to Retain ‘Burger King’ Name
Pune's Iconic Burger Joint Wins Legal Battle to Retain 'Burger King' Name
Pune, August 17, 2024 — In a significant legal victory, Pune’s beloved burger joint in Koregaon Park and Camp has won the right to continue using the name “Burger King” after a 13-year legal battle against the US-based fast-food giant Burger King Corporation.
For over a decade, the popular eatery had been forced to shorten its name to “Burger” following a trademark infringement lawsuit filed by the global fast-food chain. However, a recent ruling by District Judge Sunil Vedpathak has allowed the Pune outlet to reclaim its original name, bringing joy to its loyal patrons.
The restaurant, known for its soft, tasty, and pocket-friendly burgers, has been a favorite among Pune residents for generations. Amit Bomick, a 77-year-old regular customer, expressed his delight, saying, “The taste of their burgers is unparalleled. My family has been visiting this place for three generations. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a heritage spot in Pune.”
The court’s decision came after acknowledging that the Pune-based Burger King had been using the name since 1992, well before Burger King Corporation registered the trademark in India. The lawsuit, filed by the US company in 2011, sought to permanently prevent the Pune outlet from using the name, citing trademark infringement and other legal claims.
The plaintiff, represented by Pankaj Pahuja, argued that Burger King Corporation had used the trademark since 1954 and had opened its first restaurant in India in 2014. However, the court noted that the US company had not used its trademark in India for nearly 30 years, during which time the Pune outlet had been operating without interruption.
Advocates AD Sarwate, Srushti Angane, and Rahul Pardeshi, who represented the owners of Pune’s Burger King, successfully argued that their clients were the honest and prior users of the name, securing a landmark victory in the protracted legal battle.
With this ruling, the iconic Pune eatery can now continue to serve its loyal customers under the cherished “Burger King” name, reaffirming its place in the city’s culinary heritage. Attempts to reach the owners, Anahita Irani and Shapoor Irani, for comment were unsuccessful.
This victory not only reinstates the outlet’s identity but also underscores the importance of local businesses in the face of global competition.
